Macklemore Biography & News

Macklemore Details

About Macklemore

Macklemore touts 'One Love' (Created 9/13/13)

'Grassroots' is a term loosely used in the music industry these days, but not by Ben Haggerty, aka Macklemore. This rapper began releasing music back in 2000 and has gained his fame through an ever-growing online fan base. He has one mixtape, three EPs and two albums to his name – but none have come via a major label.

Of course Macklemore's motto seems to be "even if you succeed…try, try again." For it was his 2012 sophomore release that catapulted him into the mainstream. That album, "The Heist," was made with producer Ryan Lewis and independently produced, recorded and released by the duo. Hours after it was made available on iTunes, it hit the No. 1 spot with no mainstream marketing or promotion. It spawned five singles, including "Thrift Shop," which was the most commercially successful – peaking on the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 1 and charting within the Top 40 overseas.

A subsequent world tour to promote "The Heist" followed the album's release, with Macklemore and Lewis using the platform to put a spotlight on songs like "Some Love." The track is a message of support to Washington state's Referendum 74 regarding gay marriage, and has been a constant source of controversy for Macklemore, who is a strong supporter of LGBT rights. The singer also condemns homophobia in mainstream hip hip, society, and mass media.

In May 2013, Macklemore was featured on Clinton Sparks' single "Gold Rush," along with 2 Chainz and D.A. He is currently on tour to promote "The Heist," and recently released a video for their latest single "White Walls."